Global Compact Launches in Belarus

(Minsk/New York, 20 December 2006 UNDP/gco) - Over 170 participants
representing business, government, civil society organizations and media
launched the Global Compact in Minsk, Belarus today. During the event, 26
Belarusian companies collectively committed to the principles and working
jointly on establishing a Global Compact network in the country. Among the
largest enterprises in Belarus have joined the initiative, including AtlantM
from automotive industry, Savushkin product, from diary industry, Milovitsa, a
producer of textile, Belarusian Business Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers
and Coca Cola Belarus.

The event was attended by the Deputy Prime Minister of Belarus Mr.
Andrei Kobyakov. Mr. Kobyakov said “Belarusian organizations have an
experience of realization of social projects in different spheres, but the
further implementation of the social oriented politics, which is allied to the
Global Compact principles, is very important to our country”. He also expressed
hope that the network would soon grow, including more companies from Minsk and
other regions in the country.

“Belarusian companies hope to expand into international markets. Thus,
joining the Global Compact can help them participate in international events,
share information and knowledge—to learn and adhere to new global trends in
business management” said Sergei Ivanov, manager of a consulting company,
“Agrarian-Consulting Center”. “And promoting of corporative social
responsibility will help fighting negative phenomena such as “wild”, dishonest
competition.”

At the next stage a Global Compact local network will be
established to promote corporate responsibility among companies, exchange
innovations and experiences in implementing the Global Compact principles and
plan collective projects and partnerships.